**Kiama Woman Advocates for Free Bleeding Rituals During Menstrual Cycle**
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A massage therapist from Kiama, Australia, Zoe Butler, has taken to social media to share her unique approach to managing her menstrual cycle. Butler’s video, posted on Instagram, details the elaborate preparations she undertakes at home to practice free bleeding—a method where menstruators choose not to use sanitary products. This initiative is part of her broader effort to foster a healthier connection with her body and to celebrate the natural processes of womanhood.
Butler asserts that conversations surrounding menstruation often remain shrouded in secrecy. Reflecting on her upbringing, she explained, “Most women were really not taught that much. It’s quite a secretive conversation.” She noted that many mothers feel uncomfortable discussing menstruation, which is a natural bodily function. This lack of open discussion contributes to a general absence of education regarding hormonal changes and the distinct stages of the menstrual cycle, which includes menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases.
Her relationship with her period was complicated from an early age. Butler began taking birth control pills at the age of 15, primarily to manage her skin and often found herself skipping menstrual cycles without fully understanding the health implications. It was not until her twenties that she began to re-evaluate her relationship with her body, feeling particularly drawn to nurturing her connection to her womb. This journey led her to discover the practice of free bleeding, which she believes has been beneficial for her physical and emotional well-being.
In preparation for her menstruation, Butler makes significant adjustments to her living space. She shares her strategies on social media, showcasing red waterproof bedding and blankets designed to keep her home free from stains. By creating a comfortable and accommodating environment, she allows herself to rest and manage her cycle in a way that feels liberating and natural.
In her Instagram reel, Butler demonstrates the various items she utilises to facilitate her free bleeding practice. She encourages others to find materials they feel comfortable using—whether it’s red waterproof covers or simply layers of folded towels. By sharing her experience, Butler aims to help others navigate the discomfort that can accompany menstruation and to foster a dialogue about bodily autonomy.
For those considering a similar approach, Butler recommends starting small. “Even just starting with one day, one hour, or a couple of hours—it’s important to remember that you don’t need to jump straight into a full day of free bleeding,” she advised. By gradually introducing this practice into one’s routine, individuals can begin to cultivate a greater sense of comfort with their menstrual flow.
Additionally, Butler encourages creating a ritual out of the experience. She suggests that one should take time to honour the process, rather than becoming distracted by phones or other devices. “Notice what happens in your body when you do that,” she suggests, advocating for mindfulness during menstruation. By eliminating distractions and tuning in to bodily sensations, Butler believes individuals can foster a deeper understanding of their cycles.
Butler describes her journey with free bleeding as both a privilege and a personal empowerment. “I have created a life where I can just kind of go all into this,” she acknowledged. By normalising free bleeding and opening up conversations about menstruation, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their own cycles in a healthy and positive light.
As societal attitudes around menstruation continue to evolve, Butler’s advocacy sheds light on the ongoing need for education and open discussions surrounding women’s health. Her approach may not resonate with everyone, but it encourages a reevaluation of how menstruation is viewed and managed in daily life. By sharing her practices and experiences, Butler invites others to explore their connection to their bodies in a meaningful way, potentially transforming their relationship with menstruation for the better.